The Village of Salmo has established a satellite Level 1 Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) as a precautionary measure to monitor, collaborate and communicate with emergency management stakeholders related to the McCormick Creek wildfire currently located 20 kms outside of the Village limits.

This morning the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) EOC issued an “Evacuation Alert Update” for the 23 properties in the Nelway/Area G that are under the alert. At this time, the Shambhala Music Festival is not under any Evacuation Alert or Evacuation Order, however the RDCK is working with festival organizers and the RCMP in the event that an evacuation becomes necessary.

The establishment of this Level 1 Salmo EOC is a precautionary measure only to ensure full emergency preparedness.

The Evacuation Alert still remains in place due to a wildfire in the area of McCormick Creek/Pend D’Oreille, 20 kilometres southwest of Salmo. See attached map.

RDCK will be in close contact with BC Wildfire to receive updates on progress and any fire growth. At this time visibility is limited which is preventing any detailed assessment of the fire at this time but BC Wildfire has confirmed that it still remains on the south side of the Salmo River.

Under an Evacuation Alert, residents and visitors should be prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice. It is recommended to prepare a 72 hour Grab & Go Kit and ensure preparedness in the event that the situation worsens, and an Evacuation Order is enforced.

Although there are only 23 residential properties on Evacuation Alert, the RDCK is aware that the Shambhala Festival could be threatened by further expansion of this fire. At this time, the Shambhala Music Festival is not under any Evacuation Alert or Evacuation Order, however the RDCK is working with festival organizers and the RCMP in the event that an evacuation becomes necessary.

The RDCK will provide further updates throughout the day when more information becomes available.

Ensure that you are signed up for the RDCK Emergency Alert System by visiting www.rdck.ca.